How many DSM-5 criteria indicate a mild substance use disorder?

• A. 1-2 criteria
• B. 3-4 criteria
• C. 4-5 criteria
• D. 2-3 criteria

Answer: (D)

Severity of a Substance Use Disorder in DSM-5 is determined by how many criteria are met. A mild designation comes from a small cluster of criteria being present, indicating there is still substantial impact but not a broad pattern of problems yet. The criteria cover areas like using more than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down, spending a lot of time obtaining or using the substance, cravings, continuing use despite problems in relationships or obligations, using in hazardous situations, and changes in tolerance or withdrawal. When only a few of these areas are affected, the disorder is labeled mild; meeting more criteria points to a higher level of severity. That’s why this option—the one describing a small number of criteria as the threshold for mild—is the best fit.